Elk Valley RCMP are reporting an alarming encounter between a cougar and a 12-year-old boy and his dog in a Sparwood neighbourhood.

The boy was in his backyard at approximately 3:30 p.m. on Monday, Aug. 23, with a small dog, when a cougar strolled right into the yard. The big cat was initially walking towards the dog, but then turned its attention to the boy. The RCMP report says the boy had the presence of mind to raise his arms in the air to make himself as big as possible, which stopped the cougar from advancing just long enough for the boy to grab his dog and run into his house.

Parents and neighbours gathered, but the cougar did not depart the area. Instead, the cougar slowly walked behind a shed, and remained there, staring back at the onlookers.

Police arrived on the scene and found the cougar still behind the shed. The cougar had to be put down by police.

The cougar was turned over to the Conservation Service, who have taken samples from the cat and will continue with their investigation and follow-up.

The cougar is estimated to have been three years old, and believed to have been a healthy young male.

Police say one of the neighbourhood cats had disappeared the night before, and it is suspected that this cougar was responsible.

Although there have not been many cougar sightings reported this year, the police want to caution the public to be aware that any wildlife can be encountered any time. Please be aware, and be prepared to react accordingly should the need arise.